I am extremely hesitant as I begin to write this, because I know the likelihood of what will follow as a result. It always does. No matter how I preface it, regardless of how it is phrased, inevitably the responses come. “Oh come on, of course you can!” “Don’t be like that!” “We don’t care, just give it a try!” And… it only seems exacerbated at this time of year.
Last week I was privileged to travel to Perth and visit Community of Christ members and friends. I was able to participate in Food Pantry; a program of the church that helps provide food to those in need, where we estimated that perhaps over the year 2000 times people were given food to assist in meeting their daily needs. I was able to visit in people’s homes where we shared in fellowship, participated in the school pick up run, exchanged visions and ideas about our future, and swapped engagement stories. I was offered incredible hospitality through airport pick up/drop off, great coffee every morning, and sharing with fellow disciples at the Communion table. And at one point, I was even lucky enough to have a dip in the Indian Ocean.
Yet there was another major part of my visit there; the privilege to hear the West Australian Show Choir in full voice filling the congregation building. 50 choir members from the community with a packed church of family and friends watching on. I was present at the church to witness the final rehearsal earlier in the week also – and I use the word ‘witness’ very intentionally! As I stood there prior to the choir performance practice on the Wednesday evening, once again I was met with the inevitable question “Why don’t you join us for the practice!?” And as I mentioned earlier, it does not matter how I phrase my response!
I love music, but I have never been a great singer. In fact, I’ve haven’t even been close to a good singer. It’s not something that haunts me, or has driven me to pursue lessons, it’s just not one of the talents I was born with. But I appreciate and value that others are gifted in this way.
As we draw closer to the celebration of Christ’s birth, Christmas is often a time where we share gifts with others, but it is also a time when we can share our giftedness. It may be expertly singing Christmas Carols, or it could be opening your heart with extravagant hospitality. It may be putting the love, dedication and skill in preparing something delicious, or it could be through the thoughtfulness of a gift given. It may be sharing joy through entertaining, or it could be simply being present with someone in a special moment.
Remembering the story of Christ, and the message that he brought to the world, reminds each one of how special you are, with your unique giftedness, and that you too are a child of God. As we remember the love that God shared with us, what are the things you are able to share with others?
My prayer is that each of you will have a very blessed time this Christmas, and that you can bring God’s blessing of love to others as you consider that question.
Merry Christmas,
Adam Wade
Mission President (Interim)
Community of Christ Australia